BUDDING artists gathered at Farnham Maltings last week for a free stone carving taster workshop.

The two-hour session was part of ‘My Shout’, a new programme for over 55s designed to celebrate age through a series of weekly artistic workshops.

The sculpture lessons will see participants designing and carving a new sandstone bench to be placed outside the Maltings.

Christine Lee, arts and health project manager at the Maltings, said: “Together, the workshops will create four new pieces of art. The aim is to celebrate age, encourage people to learn new skills and to bring together different parts of the community.”

The sessions are led by professional sculptor Michael Disley. He said: “Today we’re doing bas-relief, a type of stone carving that hasn’t changed in 3,000 years.

“We’re starting with simple lines to give an idea of how it’s done, but we’re looking for a core group of keener carvers who will continue on the sandstone.”

Participant Maxine Long said she was drawn to the session as she has always been interested in stone carving.

“It’s lovely and it’s free for two hours - I don’t know how the Maltings can afford it,” she added.

The My Shout programme, run in association with Age UK Surrey and Waverley Borough Council, also includes a theatre production, dance performance and short film.

There will be another taster session at the end of January at Forest Lodge Garden Centre. The classes are open to anyone aged 55 or older and are free of charge.

For tickets call the Maltings box office on 01245 745444 or email [email protected] to find out more about the My Shout project.